Digital Photography Essentials - Black and White

One of the most commonly neglected artistic applications of the digital camera is black and white photography. Taking time to practice seeing the possibilities will reward you with some out-of-the-ordinary additions to your portfolio.

The chief problem beginning photographers have when trying out monochromatic photography is knowing how to look at a shot with grayscale in mind. Color tone, or contrast, becomes more significant, since the usual color distinctions are missing. The skill of seeing contrast isnt second-nature. One aid in this is to use the Black & White mode on the camera. Although there is no real advantage to this from the imaging standpoint, since even free photo editors admirably convert images to grayscale and sepia monotones, by using the camera display you can actually see the photo as it will look. This helps in indentifying problems with color tones blending together, unwanted shadows, and other issues that wouldnt be visible in color. Practicing previewing in this way can help educate your eye, and soon you will perceive the distinctions without even needing the camera.

With the removal of color, the photographer must look at his potential image with new eyes: linear patterns and shadows can be much more striking in black and white than in color. Keep an eye out for lines and shapes that define the images photos that would be quite ordinary in color take on drama in monotones. The ratio of darks to lights (contrast) influences your shot more drastically as well. Filling an image with soft light can create an otherworldly look. Look to use dark area to create a somber photograph. Experiment with mood it can often be more easily expressed with the simplicity of black and white.

Black and white portrait photography can produce remarkable results. The loss of color can mean the loss of many potential defects blemishes, flushes, red noses and the like can fade away, leaving a more flattering shot than one closer to the real thing. Careful lighting can either accentuate features like wrinkles, or reduce them. Work with your lighting to try to show what it is you want to express. Generally, it is best to fill the frame with your subject, unless there is something in the background that is important to the story you are telling about him. Remember, simple images are often the strongest.

Photos of scenery can also be more interesting in black and white. A common problem in photographing distant points is haze that washes out the colors. This is no difficulty in black and white! Bring out natures drama by using contrast rather than color. Anyone who has doubts about nature photography in black and white need only look at Ansel Adams work.

Whether youve attempted monotone photography before and havent been delighted, or its a new experience for you, you can learn to take stunning photographs in this manner. The basic elements of good photography are the same composition, contrast, depth of field, focus, lighting, exposure, etc. You just need to develop an eye to see slightly differently contrast, lighting and exposure have more effect on the final image, and need to be considered more fully. However, with some effort (and with digital film there is no need to be frugal about the number of pictures you shoot), eventually you may find your best shots to be in black and white.

To learn more about digital photography visit DigitalPhotography4All.com, where you can find lots of ideas for improving your photos.